Effects of Eyeball Tracking Exercises with Neuromuscular Postural Control Exercise Program on Chronic Neck Pain Patients with Tension Headache: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of eyeball tracking exercises with neuromuscular postural control exercise programs on chronic neck pain patients with tension headaches. Design: A randomized controlled trial Methods: Thirty-two patients with chronic neck pain and tension headaches participated in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to the experimental group (n＝17) and the control group (n＝15) using a random allocation program. Both groups received a neuromuscular postural control exercise program. Additionally, the experimental group received eyeball tracking exercises. Visual analogue scale (VAS), neck disability index (NDI), and quality of life (Euro Quality of Life 5 Dimension, EQ-5D), headache impact index test-6 (HIT-6), and SCM muscle thickness were compared to evaluate the effect on intervention. Results: Both groups showed significant changes in VAS, NDI, EQ-5D, HIT-6, and SCM muscle thickness before and after the intervention (P<0.05). Furthermore, there were significant differences in the magnitude of change in VAS, EQ-5D, and HIT-6 between the experimental and control groups (P<0.05). Conclusions: Eyeball tracking exercises with neuromuscular control exercises that are in chronic neck pain patients with tension headaches can promote relaxation of the muscles around the eyes and enhance the stability of the neck muscles, as well as improving postural control ability. Therefore, eyeball tracking exercises with neuromuscular control exercises for chronic neck pain patients with tension headaches are effective method with clinical significance in improving the pain, quality of life, and reducing the headache impact index.